Castel dell'Ovo Tours

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Castel dell’Ovo, the imposing fortified castle on the island of Megaride in the Bay of Naples, is one of Naples’ most famous monuments. Connected to the mainland by a causeway, the castle—home to the Museum of Ethno-Prehistory—offers sweeping views over the city and Mount Vesuvius in the distance.

The Basics

The site on which Naples’ (Napoli’s) iconic castle now stands has a long history, beginning as a settlement for Greek colonists before hosting a monastery and then a 12th-century Norman fortress. The current castle was built during the Aragonese dynasty in the 15th century, and today, the 19th-century fishing village of Borgo Marinari, known for its excellent seafood restaurants and marina, sits at the base of the castle.

Castel dell'Ovo, one of the city’s most important sights, is included on most Naples walking, bike, and Segway tours along with other landmarks like Piazza del Plebiscito and Castel Nuovo, also known as the Maschio Angioino, the city’s inland fortress. As the largest city on the coast of Campania, Naples is a transportation hub and a popular day trip from nearby destinations like the Amalfi Coast and Capri.

Things to Know Before You Go

Castel dell’Ovo is a must-see for history and architecture buffs.Admission to the castle and the museum is free.The inner halls of the castle are open to the public only during special events and exhibitions; the ramparts and towers are always open.There is an elevator from the ground floor to the ramparts, making the castle mostly accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

How to Get There

Castel dell’Ovo is located in the Bay of Naples (also called the Gulf of Naples) just off the lungomare (coastal road) between the San Ferdinando and Chiaia neighborhoods. Bus 151 from the train station and 140 from the port stop at Castel dell’Ovo.

When to Get There

The castle is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30am to 7pm, and Sundays and holidays from 8:30am to 1:30pm. The Prehistoric Museum is open only on weekends from 10am to 1pm. As Naples is one of Italy’s most visited cities, its sights can be very crowded in the high-season summer months. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and to take advantage of the best light for snapping photos from the castle’s towers.

The Egg Castle

The origins of the castle’s name comes from a legend about the Roman poet Virgil, who is said to have placed a magical egg in the foundations beneath where the castle now stands. As long as the egg stays intact, Castel dell’Ovo will remain standing.

The Italian city of Naples boasts a character and atmosphere all of its own, with sweeping coastal views, historic architecture, and centuries of colorful history to explore. On this tour, follow your guide through the city streets and discover top attractions including Neptune’s Fountain and the medieval Castel Nuovo, where fine views over the Bay of Naples and Mt. Vesuvius await. Visit the Archaeological Museum with entry fee included, and admire its world-famous collection of mosaics and Roman art.

Get the most out of Naples in a short amount of time when you embark on this speedy Segway tour. After a brief training session, you’ll follow your guide to the city’s key highlights, including the Castel dell'Ovo, Piazza del Plebiscito, Chiaia Street, the San Carlo Theater, and more. An audio guide will keep you informed, while a break for a popular Neapolitan pastry is the perfect refreshment.

Explore Naples’ history and architecture on this guided Segway tour. Meet at a convenient central location and take a quick training session before strapping on a helmet and hopping on a Segway Ninebot. Listen to a narrated audio tour while cruising to landmarks like Spaccanapoli Street, Maschio Angioino Castle, and Plebiscito Square.

This walking tour provides an accessible introduction to Naples’ main highlights. See the Fountain of Neptune, Castel Nuovo, and San Carlo Theater, and listen to your guide’s stories about Naples’ royal past. Pause for a traditional sfogliatella pastry and espresso before heading to the Castel Dell’ Ovo, where you can capture photos of Mt. Vesuvius, the Bay of Naples, and the islands of Ischia and Capri.

Get to know the southern Italian capital in a unique way with this 3-hour guided bike tour of Naples. Ride through the historic city with a professional guide, learning about Naples' archaeological, cultural and culinary history. Stop frequently for photos, including a coffee break along the way. Ideal for cruise passengers or short-break tourists.

Explore Naples’ historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, on a 3-hour bike tour. Following a guide, cycle past landmarks like Castel dell'Ovo, the Church of Gesu' Nuovo and Piazza del Plebiscito. On a bike, you can cover more ground than you would on a walking tour but still enjoy being outside so you don’t miss any views.

See the beauty of Campania from the water with a sunset cruise from Naples. Relax on board a traditional Neapolitan boat as you watch historic landmarks drift past. Sip a typical local aperitif with Prosecco wine and nibble on tasty appetizers during this romantic boat trip.

Discover one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, whose historic center has been officially recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a private guide tour of Naples and learn about its history while you explore an authentic Italian gem.

Get under the skin of Naples with a private walking tour, led by your own art or social historian guide. The private tour is perfect for those who want to know more about the city and its fascinating history — from the days of the ancient Greeks to the era of Bourbon kings and beyond. Visit the Royal Palace of Naples, Castel dell’Ovo and Castel Nuovo and learn all about their secrets and stories as you walk. Entrance fees are at your own expense.